VISION 39 — HOUSE-MASTER
DAME
OF MELBA
HOUSE
[2011]
The Dame of Melba is a weekend holiday residence
for a retired couple, set into a hillside overlooking the
rugged Anglesea coastline. Exposed and in a harsh, salty
environment, materials that weather well over time and
require minimal maintenance were key selection criteria.
The house is dug into the sloping site with dynamic
cantilevered spaces overhanging the earth. The exterior
of the house is clad in locally sourced timber boards for
their beautiful weathering characteristics. The facade will
slowly transform into a silvery grey driftwood colour, with
subtle textural variations complimenting the surrounding
native vegetation. Massive granite filled gabion walls
retain the hillside and form the boundary of the carport
hidden beneath one of the branching cantilevers.
Entry to the residence is from beneath one such
cantilever, through a gallery space that leads to a
staircase and up into the open plan kitchen and living
area. The lower level is reserved as sleeping quarters for
family and guests. Decks to the north and east branch off
the Living area. Sliding timber screens wrap around the
Northern deck providing privacy from neighbours and
shading from the sun, with the added benefit of beautiful
patterned light being cast internally. Internal linings
are drawn outward, with sustainably grown Hoop Pine
plywood ceiling panels evolving into external
soffit linings.
The owners also entertain on the eastern deck, enjoy
the coastal views and remain protected from the harsh
winds by a massive south facing glazed sliding door.
The Master Bedroom sits adjacent to the Living area
and enjoys elevated coastal views and the first
glimpses of approaching visitors.